Growing Old Together (Maintaining an Older Vehicle)
December 18, 2022
More and more of us are hanging on to our vehicles longer. A company by the name of HIS Markit recently released a report that shows the average age of light vehicles in the U.S. is now 11.8 years. Light vehicles are cars, SUVs (sport utility vehicles) and CUVs (compact utility vehicles).
In Canada, the average life expectancy of a vehicle there is around 13 years, and in the U.S., it's around 15. Vehicles are lasting longer these days, and there are several reasons for that.
One expert cites better technology and overall quality improvements. While in past years, vehicles were made mainly of heavier steel components, more modern vehicles contain lighter magnesium and aluminum alloys, high-strength steel, polymers and carbon fiber. They last longer and reduce the overall vehicle weight, and that can contribute to better fuel economy.
Modern internal combustion engine designs have been improved, and since they use more computers, they are more efficient with better performance. Those factors also contribute to a longer-lasting powertrain. In fact, it's not unusual to see a powertrain easily last 150,000 miles/250,000 kilometers or more with no major failures.
Drivers are also taking their vehicles in more regularly for periodic maintenance. Choosing one service facility for all your maintenance can contribute to your vehicle's longevity, too, since technicians know your vehicle's repair and service history.
If you bought your vehicle taking out a 5-year loan and you keep it 11 years, you've managed 6 of those years without a payment, always a nice feeling. Plus, a bonus is that you get very familiar with every aspect of that vehicle's sounds, smells, handling, stopping characteristics, visibility and limitations. And the more familiar you are with your vehicle, the more confident you can be as a driver.
Charlie's Fast Lube Jackson
1901 E. Jackson Blvd.
Jackson, Missouri 63755
575-243-2226
http://www.charliesfastlubejackson.com
Need Service?
More articles from Charlie's Fast Lube Jackson
Charlie's Fast Lube Jackson Alternator Replacement Service in Jackson
January 19, 2025
Your vehicle alternator doesn't get enough credit. Though your battery gets your engine started, after that it's all about the alternator. Driving around Jackson is a lot of work for your alternator, and as upgrades such as heated steering wheels, cooled seats, stability control and lane depa... More
For 4x4s (Maintenance of 4x4 Vehicles)
January 12, 2025
Some people love 4x4 vehicles, the true 4-wheel drive works of engineering like Jeeps and 4x4 pickups that allow you to seemingly go anywhere on the planet. You can climb up a 40-degree rock trail with some planning and skill (always careful to protect the environment, of course), or you can get ... More
The Light Many Drivers Fear (Check Engine Light)
January 5, 2025
Ask just about any driver about one thing they fear seeing inside their vehicle and they'll say it's the Check Engine light coming on. You know, that little light on your instrument panel that is in the shape of a vehicle engine, often accompanied by the words Check, Check Engine, Check Engine Se... More